Johnny Mythen (Wexford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have been engaging with some of the retained firefighters in County Wexford. A national survey indicated that 60% of them intend to leave soon. A new fire station recently opened in New Ross, which is welcome. However, it cost €1.6 million and due to staffing it is only operating as a one-pump station and must rely on other stations such as Enniscorthy, which is at least half an hour away. That is a long time to wait if a person has a serious house fire. What is the Government's position on improving the conditions and further recruitment of retained firefighters? At present they are on call 24-7 with little or no incentives or prospect of promotion and are haemorrhaging experienced personnel who are not being replaced.

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